SOME homeowners prefer a classic and timeless decorating style, while others opt for a more eccentric look.
But whatever your preferences, if you are looking to renovate your home, this is something to keep in mind.
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While all styles can look great, some trends run the risk of making your home look cheap.
And since the living room is one of the largest rooms in your home, you should be careful not to fall into these traps.
In an exclusive interview with The Scottish Sun, a colour and interior design expert said one clumsy design decision can ruin the entire aesthetic of a room.
Tobie Lewis from Valsparpaint.co.uk has revealed five common trends that will actually make your living room look cheap.
Simple white walls
We all love plain white walls – they are bright, clean and can easily be brightened up with any colour you like.
However, if you don’t design them properly, the living room may end up looking clinical and boring.
Tobie explained: “There’s nothing wrong with a bit of white paint, but it’s plain and can sometimes look cheap if not paired with the right accessories.”
“Adding color creates a sense of luxury and personality.
“Statement walls or wallpaper have always been a popular choice, but now statement ceilings are definitely on the rise too!
“It is more common to design the ceiling and walls in different colours, for example a neutral or white wall with a ceiling in a strong colour.
“If you don’t feel comfortable painting the entire ceiling, try painting the crown moldings first.”
Little lighting
If you want to give your home a luxurious atmosphere, you need plenty of warm light, experts say.
And you don’t have to spend a fortune to get this look.
Tobie revealed: “Lighting can completely transform a room.
“A single lamp with a cool color tone is an absolute no-go in interior design.
“To add a touch of luxury to this room, incorporate lots of lamps in warm tones and also place lots of wonderfully scented candles.
“This setting is the perfect way to add some splendor to the living room, and it’s cost-effective too!”
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Small rugs
Rugs can be the perfect addition to a living room – they add comfort, warmth and definition to a room while also adding character.
However, if the size is wrong, it can actually have the opposite effect and make the item look cheap.
Experts advise: “A simple trick to avoid making the living room look cheap is to make sure that the furniture is in the right proportions to the room.”
“For example, a rug that is too small for the room can instantly change the atmosphere and make it look quite old-fashioned.
“You always want a rug that covers a generous area and lies directly under the corners of sofas or tables.
“If you’re on a budget, you can find great vintage rugs in charity shops or online marketplaces.”
Poor color choice
The quality of the paint you use to decorate your room can make or break the space.
Some paints are made specifically for a particular room and if this is not taken into account, the result can be a terrible finish that looks cheap.
Tobie said: “Choosing a quality paint is one of the most important aspects of any DIY job.
“Make sure the color you choose is the right one for the room or object – otherwise you will end up with a finished product that will not stand the test of time.
“Always ask the experts at the store and make sure you get a quality paint that is suitable for the job.
“Using a delicate color in a high-traffic area like a living room can result in scuffed, stained walls and devalue the entire decor.”
Three bathroom mistakes that lead to a narrow eyesore
The bathroom may be one of the smallest rooms in your home, but style choices can make a big difference.
In fact, interior designer and founder of UK Radiators, Rob Nezard, says he’s seen more than enough mistakes.
- With regard to storage – Rob says that underestimating storage needs is one of the most common mistakes as it can make it look “messy” and “cramped”.
- Poor lighting choice – Lighting is often an afterthought in bathroom design, but according to Rob, it plays a crucial role in creating a functional and inviting space.
- Ignore the radiator – Rob claims the radiator is an essential element in the bathroom but is often overlooked in terms of style and placement
Glamour galore
We all love a bit of glamour in the living room to spice up the home – but don’t overdo it.
The experts explain: “There is a fine line between looking expensive and total overkill.”
“The trend towards quiet luxury is the perfect example of how luxury can be achieved without every single piece having to be a ‘stand-out’.
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“The key is to buy durable items and use some contrasting materials in the room.
“For example, if you want to incorporate some velvet, get either a velvet sofa or velvet cushions – both are too much and can spoil the atmosphere.”
